What is MIME type "text/x-ini"?
A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.
MIME type: text/x-ini is a plain text format used for configuration files. It follows the well-known INI syntax and is designed to store settings and options for software applications.
INI files use a simple structure. They often contain sections, which are marked with square brackets, and key-value pairs that define settings. Comments may be added with a semicolon or a hash symbol. This format makes it easy for both humans and programs to read and edit the configuration data.
Key uses:
- Configuration management – Holds system and application settings.
- Program initialization – Provides parameters that help software start correctly.
- User customization – Allows users to change options without complex interfaces.
Files using this MIME type typically have the extension INI. Although popular on Windows, this format is also used in various cross-platform applications.
For more details on MIME types and their usage, visit the IANA registry.
Associated file extensions
Usage Examples
HTTP Header
When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:
Content-Type: text/x-ini
HTML
In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:
<a href="file.dat" type="text/x-ini">Download file</a>
Server-side (Node.js)
Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:
const http = require('http');
http.createServer((req, res) => {
res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'text/x-ini');
res.end('Content here');
}).listen(3000);
Associated file extensions
FAQ
What is a MIME type?
A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.
MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.
MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.
How do I find the MIME type for a file?
You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type
on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.
Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?
Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.